Napa Remodel at the historic Nathan Coombs Estate

Napa, CA

The historic Coombs estate in Napa Valley stands as a testament to thoughtful preservation and mid-century modern design.

The historic homesite has remained intact since 1847, when California pioneer Nathan Coombs purchased 80 prime acres of the Rancho Entre Napa land grant from Nicholas Higuera. From this site, Coombs founded and laid out the city of Napa. While Coombs went on to own thousands of acres across Napa County, those tracts were slowly sold off, but the original 80 acres remained in the family.

The site occupies a rare stretch of level land at the foothill of Mt. George, which flanks the eastern boundary of the property. This vantage point offers incredible views over the valley northwest to Mt. St. Helena. From slightly higher elevations, clear views of the entire San Pablo Bay to San Francisco can be enjoyed to the southwest. It is a Coast Live Oak preserve, peppered with strikingly large specimens dating back over 350 years. Two spring-fed waterfalls and three perennial creeks offer continuous water in an otherwise arid climate. Naturally, these elements provide a thriving riparian habitat and oasis, attracting a rich diversity of native plants, birds, pollinators, and wildlife.

In an effort to preserve this rich natural resource and maintain the wildness of the site, 75 acres have been dedicated to the Napa Land Trust, with the homesite and development zone occupying the remainder. For generations, the estate remained in the Coombs family as a cherished summer gathering place.

The property was purchased in 2022 from the fifth generation of the Coombs-Dunlap estate. The existing home and guesthouse were originally designed by a Berkeley architect and built in the 1970s, deeply embracing the mid-century modern aesthetic of the era. The structures featured high ceilings, post-and-beam construction, clear heart-of-redwood tongue-and-groove walls, and a timeless intention of integrating the natural surroundings with the interior living spaces.

From our clients:

“The second we passed through the gate, we were transported to a different time in California. Only eleven minutes from town, yet emotionally far away from the hustle and bustle, time seemed to stop and restart through a completely different lens. It was immediately clear we weren’t just buying property; we were being entrusted with a precious legacy. We needed to assume the responsibility of maintaining this vision in our own way while respecting those who came before us—not just the Coombs family, but the native peoples who hunted, gathered, and communed here for centuries prior. As Andy Warhol famously said, “I think having land and not ruining it is the most beautiful art that anybody could ever want to own.

Because the home originally served as a summer retreat, we knew changes were necessary to create a functional, modern residence. Yet, there was so much original character we wanted to preserve. To let that vision mature, we decided to live in the home for a few years before beginning renovations, hoping to make design decisions that would echo long after us. In an age where the “outdated” is easily torn down and replaced, we wanted to preserve the existing, thoughtful craftsmanship while adapting the home for modern life.

We are longtime fans of the late Marin Architect John Marsh Davis, whose work became a vital reference point during our planning conversations. This inspiration ultimately led us to Marin Architect Michael Heacock and his exceptional renovation and restoration of John Marsh Davis’ 1969 Sterling Residence.

Michael Heacock was far more than the architect for this project—he became a trusted steward of its history and a true creative partner. From our first conversation, Michael understood something essential: our goal was never to erase the past, but to thoughtfully build upon it. This property carries nearly two centuries of history, and we felt a deep responsibility to preserve its spirit while creating a contemporary home for our family.

Rather than encouraging a complete rebuild, Michael embraced the existing 1970s architecture, recognizing its unique craftsmanship, proportions, and deep relationship with the landscape. He listened carefully, challenged us when needed, and translated our ideas into a timeless design that respects what was already there. His sensitivity to place, attention to detail, and remarkable ability to balance historic preservation with modern living made him an extraordinary collaborator.

The finished home doesn't feel like a renovation—it feels as though it has always belonged here, evolving naturally while remaining true to its original character.”